There is a wide range of ISPs (Internet Service Providers) in Switzerland. It’s certain that during your stay you will receive a lot of advertising and promotional CDs from them! All universities and most schools have access to the Internet.
Getting connected to the Internet in Switzerland is fairly easy, options include: dial-up, ISDN, DSL and cable. Bear in mind that it may take a while to get high-speed access, such as DSL, installed.
Most dial-up ISPs (Internet Service Providers) offer two types of access:
Both analogue and ISDN lines can be used to access the Internet by dial up. ISDN will offer you faster access at 64 kbps (or 128 kbps, if you use both lines at the same time). The monthly fee for an ISDN line is a little more expensive you will need a special ISDN modem. In Switzerland, ISDN is very popular, with around half of the phone lines equipped with it.
Access rates vary considerably, so it is wise to shop around. Many providers do not even require any sign-up or commitment - simply calling a designated number to make the connection is enough.
If you wish to have a higher speed Internet connection you might want to get a DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) connection. This provides an Internet connection up to 30 times faster than a standard analogue service.
DSL is an exchange-side upgrade to your phone line and usually requires no changes to cabling into your home (but may need additional computer cabling).